The daring rescue had been successfully completed, and for a whole hour, Passepartout laughed joyfully at their achievement. Sir Francis warmly shook his hand, and his master said, "Well done!"—a high compliment coming from him. Passepartout humbly replied that all the credit belonged to Mr. Fogg, and that he had only been struck by a "queer" idea. He chuckled at the thought that, for a few moments, he, Passepartout—the former gymnast and fireman—had been the husband of a charming woman and a venerable, embalmed rajah! As for the young Indian woman, she had been unconscious throughout the ordeal and was now resting wrapped in a traveling blanket inside one of the howdahs.
Thanks to the skillful guidance of the Parsee, the elephant was moving swiftly through the dark forest and had crossed a vast plain an hour after leaving the pagoda. They stopped at seven o'clock, the young woman still weak and prostrate. The guide gave her a little brandy and water, but the drowsiness caused by the hemp fumes lingered. Sir Francis, familiar with such intoxication, reassured the group, though he worried about her future. He told Phileas Fogg that if Aouda stayed in India, she would likely fall again into the hands of her executioners. These fanatics were spread throughout the region and, despite English police efforts, would find her in Madras, Bombay, or Calcutta. Her only safety was to leave India forever.
Phileas Fogg promised to consider the matter.
They reached Allahabad station around ten o'clock, where the railway line resumed, allowing them to reach Calcutta within twenty-four hours. This timing meant Phileas Fogg could catch the steamer leaving Calcutta the next day for Hong Kong.
Aouda was placed in a waiting room while Passepartout was sent to buy her toiletries, a dress, shawl, and furs, with unlimited credit from his master. Passepartout explored the streets of Allahabad, known as the City of God, a sacred place built where the Ganges and Jumna rivers meet. According to legend, the Ganges descends from heaven thanks to Brahma's intervention.
Passepartout noticed the city’s decline—once protected by a noble fort now a prison, with dwindling commerce and no bustling bazaars like those he knew. Eventually, he found an elderly Jewish man selling second-hand goods and bought a Scotch dress, a large mantle, and a fine otter-skin pelisse for seventy-five pounds. He returned triumphantly to the station.
Aouda slowly regained her senses, her fine eyes returning their soft Indian expression. She was a charming woman, speaking English fluently, and the guide’s description of her upbringing was accurate.
As the train prepared to leave Allahabad, Mr. Fogg paid the guide the agreed sum, no more, surprising Passepartout, who recalled the guide’s devotion and risk during the rescue. Mr. Fogg then surprised everyone by gifting the elephant to the guide, who gratefully accepted.
Phileas Fogg, Sir Francis Cromarty, Passepartout, and Aouda traveled swiftly toward Benares, a journey of eighty miles completed in two hours. During the trip, Aouda fully recovered and was astonished to find herself dressed in European clothes, traveling by train with strangers. Her companions revived her with some liquor and explained the events, praising Mr. Fogg’s courage. Aouda thanked them emotionally.
Phileas Fogg offered to escort her to Hong Kong for safety, an offer she gratefully accepted, as she had a Parsee relative who was a prominent merchant there.
At Benares, Sir Francis left to join his troops, bidding farewell with warm wishes. The train journey continued along the Ganges valley, passing diverse landscapes and sacred sites, glimpses of ancient forts, factories, and towns. Night fell as the train sped toward Calcutta, hiding the marvels of Bengal from view.
They arrived in Calcutta at seven in the morning, with the steamer to Hong Kong departing at noon. According to his journal, Phileas Fogg was exactly on schedule, neither early nor late, having lost the two days gained earlier crossing India.
Background and Author Introduction
This passage is from Around the World in Eighty Days, a classic adventure novel written by Jules Verne, a French author famous for his imaginative and pioneering works in science fiction and adventure literature. First published in 1873, the novel follows the journey of Phileas Fogg, an English gentleman who wagers that he can circumnavigate the globe in eighty days. The story captures the spirit of the 19th-century fascination with exploration, technology, and the shrinking world brought about by railways and steamships.
Jules Verne’s works are notable for their detailed descriptions of geography, culture, and technology, blending thrilling narratives with educational elements. His stories often inspire curiosity about the world and encourage readers to dream big and embrace adventure.
Detailed Interpretation and Significance
This excerpt highlights themes of courage, loyalty, cultural encounter, and the triumph of human ingenuity. Phileas Fogg’s calm determination and Passepartout’s quick thinking save Aouda from a dire fate, illustrating how bravery and compassion can overcome danger. The journey through India introduces readers to diverse cultural and religious landscapes, emphasizing respect and curiosity for other traditions.
The story also reflects the colonial context of the time, portraying India under British rule and the complex interactions between locals and Europeans. Aouda’s rescue and subsequent protection underscore themes of justice and sanctuary, as well as the challenges faced by individuals caught in political and cultural conflicts.
Lessons and Insights for Students
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Courage and Quick Thinking: Passepartout’s impulsive idea and Fogg’s bravery show how quick decisions and courage can lead to success in difficult situations. Students can learn to trust their instincts and act decisively when necessary.
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Compassion and Respect: The care shown to Aouda, despite cultural differences, teaches empathy and the importance of helping others regardless of background.
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Cultural Awareness: The vivid descriptions of Indian cities, customs, and religions encourage students to appreciate cultural diversity and develop a global perspective.
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Perseverance and Planning: Phileas Fogg’s meticulous planning and steady progress despite setbacks demonstrate the value of perseverance and careful preparation in achieving goals.
Applying These Lessons in Life and Learning
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In School: Students can cultivate curiosity about different cultures and histories, enriching their understanding of the world. They can also practice problem-solving skills by thinking creatively, like Passepartout, when facing challenges.
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In Social Situations: Empathy and respect for others, especially those from different backgrounds, can foster better friendships and teamwork.
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In Personal Growth: Embracing courage and perseverance helps students overcome fears and setbacks, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with confidence.
Cultivating Positive Values from the Story
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Bravery: Encourage students to face challenges bravely, understanding that mistakes or risks can lead to growth.
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Loyalty and Friendship: Highlight the importance of standing by friends and helping those in need, as Passepartout and Fogg do for Aouda.
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Open-mindedness: Promote an open attitude toward different cultures and ideas, fostering inclusivity and respect.
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Curiosity: Inspire students to explore and learn about the world beyond their immediate environment, nurturing lifelong learning.
Conclusion
Jules Verne’s Around the World in Eighty Days is more than an exciting adventure; it is a rich educational resource that offers insights into geography, culture, history, and human values. Through the daring rescue of Aouda and the journey across India, young readers learn about courage, empathy, and the importance of perseverance. These lessons are timeless and can be applied in school, social life, and personal development, helping students grow into thoughtful, brave, and open-minded individuals ready to explore the world and face its challenges.
